OUR MISSION

To make the world’s spaces connected, accessible and productive

Founders

Caterina and Julien first met almost two decades ago, when they were both working as salespeople at a now-defunct department store called Eaton's in Montreal, Canada. When they met up again in 2012, it was clear to both that they'd achieved a lot, individually, and that working together could help them make something really unique and special. Together they developed Julien's idea of a quiet place to go.

Together, they created Breather—the result is what you see today.

Co-Founders Caterina Rizzi, CCO and Julien Smith, CEO

What's with the tree?

Trees represent an ecosystem. Trees last a long time, just like what we are trying to build. Trees are a place of refuge, where you can find shade or sit down and take a moment of rest.

A long time ago when we started Breather, we thought of trees as the lungs of the world, helping people breathe easy and be comfortable. As we grow, we like to think of ourselves as building a new kind of ecosystem, one that lets you breathe and connect and climb as high as you need to.

—Julien Smith, CEO and Co-Founder

Our Values

At Breather, our company values are not only the principles that link us together in the way we work, but they also keep us aligned on the same path, all working towards connected goals. These standards are what guide us on our collective journey through space(s).

Contribution

Make the biggest possible impact.

Speed

Move fast, iterate faster.

Service

Treat everyone like it’s their birthday.

Independence

Work with a sense of ownership.

Humility

Get over yourself.

Ambition

Act like an entrepreneur.

Empathy

Embrace everyone’s perspective.

Candor

A Global Story

We first launched Breather in Montreal, Canada, in August 2013. Since then, we’ve expanded to 10 cities in just three years. Although we are now operating globally (our latest expansion was to London, England!), our main offices are in Montreal and New York City.

New York City

35 Employees

Boston

6 Employees

San Francisco

17 Employees

London

6 Employees

Los Angeles

4 Employees

Montreal

83 Employees

Chicago

4 Employees

Toronto

3 Employees

Washington DC

3 Employees

Ottawa

2 Breathers

Our Investors

We’re venture backed by some pretty outstanding investors. These people believe in Breather and everything that we do.

Join the Team

We’re venture backed. We’re growing quickly. We have big ambitions… we want you to help us achieve them.